Phoenix Fitness Opens in Ballston

Phoenix Fitness, a studio owned by three personal trainers, has opened in Ballston.

“We all had the same dream of owning a studio,” co-owner Stephen Kidd said.

They had worked at larger gyms before deciding to branch out on their own just over a year ago. It took a while for them to find the right location, but they settled on the Federal Lock & Safe building at 5130 Wilson Boulevard.

“We wanted to get away from the congestion of a big box gym,” Kidd said.

At the moment, the studio is offering sessions with personal trainers. By February, they hope to offer boxing and other specialty classes.

“We are more of a niche studio,” co-owner Sharney Wiringi said. “Studios like ours are popping up more. People want to get out of monthly memberships.”

The owners tout their free parking in front of the studio and lack of crowds as bonuses to a smaller space.

“Our philosophy is to turn this more into a community instead of a jam packed Gold’s Gym atmosphere,” co-owner Remy Kim said.

They also hope not being a part of a larger corporation will give them a chance to do things their own way.

“There’s nobody saying you have to be a salesman instead of a personal trainer,” Kidd said.

The gym is looking to add more personal trainers, which serve as contractors, to the gym. They are also looking to sign up members. If you are interested, visit the www.phoenixfitnessva.com.